What is your cat trying to tell you?

Cats have a very clear set of audible sounds that they use to communicate with humans. Getting to know the subtle differences between the sounds that your cat makes, can help you to understand their mood and needs.

The sounds that cats use to communicate have been categorized into two sections. The pure sound and the complex sound. 

Pure sound includes

• Growl- A low level rumbling sound that cats make to show aggression.
• Shriek- High pitched alarm to warn predators or attackers. 
• Hiss-An urgent aspiration used to indicate pain or warn off immediate signs of danger.
• Chatter- This is a sound a cat will use when in a predatory situation that can not be implemented. Often you can hear this when your cat is inside, and sees a bird or squirrel it wants to chase outside. 

Complex Sounds Include 

• Meow- Is named thus because of the phonetic sound that is produced. Interestingly enough adult cats do not use this as a means of communication. It is reserved for communication between humans, and kittens and mothers. The sound comes in a variety of different tones, your cat deploys the variation to communicate different desires. It is important as an owner to get know the difference, so if your cat keeps meowing you can understand what it is asking for.
• Purring- This is a internal rumbling that is used to signify bliss and happiness. Cats also purr when when they are suddenly and violently injured, or at moments near death. It is said that purring causes a release of endorphins that intern decrease feelings of pain and upset. 

Listen to your cat, chances are if it is making noises it is trying to tell you something. If you are really listening, you'll start to understand it's language. Remember it is a language that was developed especially to communicate with you.  

- Dr.Liz